Phra That Klang Nam
A sacred Buddhist chedi rising from the Mekong River, visible from the banks of Nong Khai.
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Phra That Klang Nam is a revered Buddhist stupa situated in the Mekong River between Thailand and Laos, making it one of the more visually striking and spiritually significant sites in the Nong Khai region. The chedi is submerged for much of the year but emerges from the river during the dry season when water levels drop, drawing both devout pilgrims and curious travellers who come to witness this unusual natural and cultural phenomenon. Its position in the middle of the river gives it an almost otherworldly quality, and the surrounding landscape of the Mekong adds considerable atmosphere to any visit.
Visitors can view the stupa from the riverbanks of Nong Khai town, and during the dry season it may be possible to reach it more closely depending on water levels. The site carries deep religious meaning for local Buddhists, and the atmosphere is calm and contemplative. It is worth noting that the listing address places it within Nong Khai province rather than Udon Thani proper, so travellers should plan accordingly.
Written by Mac Kiley · Updated Sep 2026 · How we check places
Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Phra That Klang Nam, round out your day in Udon Thani with contrasting stops nearby.
VQX8+WP7 แม่น้ำ โขง, Tambon Nai Mueang, Amphoe Mueang Nong Khai, Chang Wat Nong Khai 43000, Thailand
Open in Google MapsMore temples & culture nearby
All within 2.0 km away of Phra That Klang Nam.
Wat Phrathat Lanong / Wat Phra That Khlang Nam (Sunken Chedi)
A partially submerged chedi rising from the Mekong River, offering a rare and atmospheric glimpse into Nong Khai's history.
Wat Siri Maha Katchai
A respected Buddhist temple in Nong Khai province, open daily for worship and quiet contemplation.
Wat Pho Chai Phra Aram Luang
A working Nong Khai temple built around a gold Buddha that locals genuinely come to pray to, not photograph.
Naga Statue
A riverside serpent guardian you can visit at any hour, and dawn or dusk is when it earns the trip.
Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Go Early Morning
Major temples like Wat Pho and Wat Arun are dramatically less crowded before 9 AM. You'll also avoid the worst of the midday heat and get softer light for photos.
Phra That Klang Nam: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Phra That Klang Nam worth visiting?
Phra That Klang Nam holds a 4.6★ rating from 588 Google reviews, placing it among the highest-rated temples & culture in Udon Thani.
When is the best time to visit Phra That Klang Nam?
The best months to visit Udon Thani are December – February (Red Lotus Sea blooms Dec–Feb), with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January (lotus season weekends) — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: March – May (peak heat).
Where is Phra That Klang Nam located?
Phra That Klang Nam is at VQX8+WP7 แม่น้ำ โขง, Tambon Nai Mueang, Amphoe Mueang Nong Khai, Chang Wat Nong Khai 43000, Thailand, in Udon Thani. Getting around Udon Thani: Songthaews on numbered city routes (฿10–15); Grab and metered taxis in the city.
Also popular in Udon Thani
Central Udon
Air-conditioned refuge in the middle of Udon Thani, with a supermarket, a cinema and a few hours of comfort.
Nong Prajak Park
Giant inflatable ducks on a city lake, and half of Udon Thani out jogging around it at dusk.
Tha Sadet Market
A covered riverside strip of stalls where the Mekong view does as much work as the shopping.
Daeng Namnuang Nong Khai
Come for the naem nuang, the DIY pork-and-herb rolls that built this riverside institution's name.
Similar Temples & Culture across Thailand
Wat Phra Kaew
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Doi Suthep Temple
Go at first light, before the tour vans arrive, and the golden chedi and the whole Chiang Mai valley are yours.
The Grand Palace
Go at 08:30 sharp, cover your shoulders and legs, and give it three hours rather than one.
The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A hand-carved wooden giant still under construction, and watching the carpenters work is half the point.